Citizens Learn Lessons Of Being A State Patrol Trooper
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- About 30 state policy makers, legislators and citizens just completed two evenings getting a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Minnesota State Patrol troopers do their jobs.
As part of the State Patrol Citizens' Academy, they got to shoot several guns and try out Tasers along with taking part in some hands-on training that forced them to decide whether or not to use deadly force.
They also spent several hours in a classroom where speakers told them about the many other roles troopers do beside traffic enforcement. They included supervisors from the aviation unit, their K-9 team and crash investigation office.
This is the second time the Minnesota State Patrol has hosted this type of academy.
Lt. Eric Roeske said it was geared toward educating people in policy-making positions at the legislature, as well as state employees whom the patrol often partners with on various safety projects.
Many federal and local law enforcement agencies also offer similar academies to people in their communities who want to get a better understanding on how police do their jobs.
To find out if there is similar program in your community, contact your local or county law enforcement agency. Many of them post that information online.
